Listening to the rhythm of nature

Fog settles on the hills by Lake Pinneo in Quechee, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

At my desk this afternoon, I had a constant companion: the raindrops, and the art they made. Their steady tapping on the skylight created the most gentle rhythm, leaving little circles of water on the window for a half-second. They landed, and down they went — the effect of perfect music. 

Naturally, they inspired me to play a few songs on my guitar, including a favorite of mine from Jakob Dylan, “Something Good This Way Comes”. As I played along, nature provided its calm, steady percussion. I added my sound to its sound, and on a rainy afternoon, the day got a little brighter. Like Dylan says, “This kind of day has no night.” 

The best part is, this inspiration doesn’t need long to settle in — it only needs us to have an open mind, and pay attention. When the day seems dark, gray and gloomy, there are reflections all around us of nature holding guard and setting the tone. We’re all included in that harmony, and each of us has the opportunity to reflect it a little more, moment by moment. Ever-present good is there to guide us, and we decide how much night enters into our day. Every honest step in a positive direction welcomes more light into our experience — it helps us see that goodness in the world. That’s true progress, and our constant opportunity to thrive.

— Gareth Henderson